2010 Clemson Football Preview

So where does Clemson go from here? The Tigers got as close to a conference title as they have since 1991 last season. All-everything running back C.J. Spiller will now be playing in the NFL, and starting quarterback Kyle Parker could be playing professional baseball this Fall.

Many Tiger fans already anticipate his departure and expect redshirt freshman Taj Boyd to fill his role. Boyd has a strong arm with better mobility than Parker, but it is unknown what he can do under pressure, and he will need help from his teammates.

The running back position could take some of the pressure off of Boyd, but that position will also have new starters. The good news is that last year’s backups to Spiller, Andre Ellington (who averaged over seven yards per carry) and Jamie Harper have had some playing time.

At the receiving positions, the Tigers will also have to bring new starters in with the departure of wide receiver Jacoby Ford and tight end Michael Palmer. This unit will have to look for production from senior wide receivers Xavier Dye and Terrance Ashe, sophomore tight end Dwayne Allen and freshman Victor Beasley.

Head coach Dabo Swinney has started to make use of the tight end more and more, and this unit will definitely be called upon to help the offense move the ball.

Perhaps the one thing on offense that has remained intact is the offensive line. Although they lack depth, this unit will only have to replace the left guard position. Depth will have to develop if the unit hopes to be consistent.

With new starters at running back, wide receiver and potentially at the quarterback position, the offensive line will have to provide that protection and give time to the skill positions.